MS-WU-MSS008-3-49

[1339] first sight the heavens seemed uniformly gloomy. [1340] But with a little pains,
for in my life I sometimes was at pains, I obtained a result, that is to
say I took a decision, in this matter. [1341] So I was able to continue on my
way, saying, I am going towards the sun, that is to say in theory towards
the East, or perhaps the South-East, for I am no longer with Lousse, but
out in the heart again of this pre-established harmony, which makes so
sweet a music, which is so sweet a music, for him who has ears to hear.

[1342] Per^ople were coming and going with rare exceptions with nervous precipitate
step, some in the shelter of the umbrella, others in that perhaps a little
less effective of the rainproof coat. [1343] And others there were who had
taken refuge under trees and archways. [1344] And among those who, more cour-
-ageous or less delicate, came and went, and among those who had stopped,
to avoid getting wet, many a one must have said, They are right, I am
wrong, meaning by they the category to which they did not belong, or so
I imagine.

[1345] As many a one too must have said, I am right, they are wrong,
while continuing to storm against the foul weather that revealed people
thus. [1346] But at the sight of a young old man of wretched aspect, shivering
all alone in a narrow doorway, I suddenly remembered the project
conceived the day of my encounter with Lousse and her dog and which this
encounter had prevented me from carrying out. [1347] So I went and stood beside
the old man, with the air I o^hoped of one who says, Here's a clever fellow,
let me follow his example.

[1348] But before I could make my o^little speech,
which I wished to seem spontaneous and so did not make at once, he went
out into the rain and away. [1349] For this speech was one liable, in virtue
of its content, if not to offend at least to astonish. [1350] And that was why
it was important to deliver it at the right moment and in the right tone.
[1351] I apologise for these details, in a moment we'll go faster, much faster.
[1352] And then perhaps relapse again into a wealth of filthy circumstance.
[1353] But which in its turn again will give rise to vast frescoes, dashed off